An Introduction to Finnish Kitchen Design

Get familiar with Finnish kitchen design

Finnish kitchen design is growing in popularity due to its simple, functionality focused outlook. Similar to Scandinavian design, but distinctly different at the same time. Whether you want to go full-on Finnish, or just want to add a touch, consider these key features of a Finnish kitchen design.

The Finnish way to use your kitchen

The Finnish people consider their kitchen to be one of the busiest places of the home. It’s a place where they nourish their families and pets, make culinary masterpieces, and entertain their guests. For this reason, they believe that it needs to be simple and easy to use, without unnecessary mess and clutter.

Finnish kitchens are usually smaller in size, just big enough so they can do what they are supposed to do. This is why the colour palette of the Finnish kitchen is usually subdued tones, so the attention is not drawn away from its functions. Floors are usually white or lightly coloured, and the room is filled with natural light. Natural tools and elements are apparent in Finnish kitchens, as part of the theme of keeping it simple. Along with this, their furniture is simple and easy to use, and décor is also kept to a minimum. The kitchen is there to be used fully, so it doesn’t need anything extra.

A simple swipe of paint can transform your kitchen to add the Finnish feel. Use white lights for a cool atmosphere, which will also make the space look bigger. Lighter coloured furniture can also make your kitchen feel calming, and suitable for easy living.

Tradition and modernity

Although minimalistic in terms of décor, Finnish tradition is still a pivotal part of the kitchen. Whether it’s a corner display of Babushka dolls inspired by Slavic heritage, or a laced handmade table cloth, Finnish tradition is interweaved within their importance of functionality. Traditional décor blends in with light colours and natural materials, handcrafted with Finnish heritage within them.

Finnish kitchens usually have an artistic feel to them. Modern designs are given traditional shapes and hints, and are blended effortlessly with the more modern surroundings. Faucets and taps are fuss free, with a clean finish and easy operation. Appliances are sleek, functional and useful, without too many attachments, buttons, or pretty little designs. Cabinets are not extravagant, but traditional ones can still have some intricate carvings depicting Finnish traditional designs. Modern cabinets tend to display their texture proudly, whether it is an earthy wood or glossy enamel.

If you want to bring this into your kitchen, without splashing the cash, go for some classic white plates which echo minimalism and tradition. An integrated herb garden also brings in the old way of growing your own ingredients, and may also add the natural touch.

Form and functionality

The most important feature of a Finnish kitchen is functionality. It’s all about easy living.

Finnish tradition is developed with functionality in mind. For example, the Finland’s Astiankuivauskaappi cabinet is a genius idea which makes the most of their limited kitchen space. Finnish people dislike drying their dishes on the side of the sink, so the Astiankuivauskaappi cabinet is set on top of the sink, and has open grills at the bottom. After washing dishes, they simply place them into the cabinet, and let the water drain through without any fuss. It’s been around for thousands of years, and it’s surprising that it hasn’t been incorporated into kitchen designs around the world.

Appliances may be seamlessly integrated into cabinets, and may even be used as storage when not in use. Chairs tuck neatly under dining tables, and utensils are fuss free.